keep one's head above water
To survive or endure, especially in a situation in which one is struggling to avoid being overwhelmed by adverse financial circumstances.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“I work two jobs just to keep my head above water.”
“With rising rent and unexpected bills, the family is struggling to keep their heads above water this month.”
“Despite the economic downturn threatening his small business, he managed to keep his head above water through careful budgeting and long hours.”
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abound in one's own sense
To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.
- 02
ace up one's sleeve
A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.
- 03
act one's age
To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.
- 04
act one's age, not one's shoe size
Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).
- 05
afraid of one's own shadow
Exceptionally timid.
- 06
air one's dirty laundry in public
To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.
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air one's dirty linen in public
Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.
- 08
albatross around one's neck
A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.
Last updated August 10, 2026